The Velocity Softshell 1/4 Zip Pullover from 782 Gear is an ultra-light, non-insulated softshell top for protection from wind and water. It can be used as an inclement/cool-weather replacement for a combat shirt when worn with armour.
The Sphinx Halfshell is another new offering from the LEAF (Law Enforcement and Armed Forces) division of Arc’teryx, and is part of LEAF’s new Armour Compatible Layering system. Also named after a legendary hybrid creature, the Sphinx is a 1/4-zip, non-insulated pullover hybrid combat shirt/jacket designed for use under armour in inclement weather. It uses two different weights of soft shell material in its construction to provide both freedom of movement and protection against the elements. The Sphinx also incorporates Arc’teryx’s ‘Roll-and-Stow’ sleeve system that enables the user to convert the sleeve configuration on the go from long to short during periods of intense physical activity.
The Explorer Jacket is a new soft shell jacket from TAD (Triple Aught Design), and is a departure from their Stealth Hoodie line, as it doesn’t have a hood, and is designed to be a non ‘tactical’ looking jacket that won’t attract undue attention in public. For those who have been wanting a TAD Gear Soft Shell jacket without a hood, this would be it.
The Gryphon Halfshell is a new offering from the LEAF (Law Enforcement and Armed Forces) division of Arc’teryx. The Gryphon is part of LEAF’s new Armour Compatible Layering system. Aptly named after the legendary creature that was a hybrid of a lion and and eagle, the Gryphon is a 1/4-zip, non-insulated pullover hybrid hooded anorak that utilizes softshell fabric in areas that are covered by body armour and hardshell fabric in high-exposure areas like the shoulders and sleeves. It is designed to be armour-compatible. The Gryphon also incorporates Arc’teryx’s ‘Roll-and-Stow’ sleeve system that enables the user to convert the sleeve configuration on the go from long to short during periods of intense physical activity.
The Vipera Shell from S.O.D. (Special Operations Department) was developed for Italian SOF as an insulated cool/cold weather jacket that is designed to provide protection against the elements while being extremely breathable, comfortable and durable. It’s not really like any other soft shell out there and can play the role of both soft shell or fleece jacket.
Like the DK jacket from OTTE Gear, the interesting new DK Hybrid Jacket is designed for movement-intensive operations and activities, and includes the ability to roll up the sleeves to convert it to short-sleeved configuration. While similar the DK, the Hybrid is a more streamlined jacket made of a combination of hard shell and soft shell material to provide the weather protection of a hard shell in the most exposed area and the comfort and breathability of a shoft shell when worn under armour.
